I hope you’re following along as we countdown the final 100 days of 2022 - you can join us anytime. Learn more about the program HERE.

In Part lV of the Learning to Lead Series, we’re going to talk about the “story.”  Everyone has a story, the summation of how they got to the place they are today.  So much is revealed when someone shares their story.  It discloses among other things, a person’s struggles, ideologies, passions, triumphs, frustrations, pride, and perspectives.  We can learn so much more about a person by their story than we do by any resume.  

Think about interviews you’ve seen.  When powerful questions are asked and people begin to reveal their story, we pay attention and we’re drawn in.    

In order to lead people effectively, you really need to know and understand their story; gain insights into who they are.  Leading is about helping others succeed, not you.  It’s about them and how they develop and progress.  That progress can be negatively impacted if we don’t have a good understanding of who we’re dealing with.  Great leaders learn to see people as they are and where they are with all their traits and human imperfections.  

The type of relationship we’re discussing is built on a foundation of trust.  And it is built over time.  Someone has to trust you before they tell you their story and show you who they truly are.  You know you’ve tapped into that deep layer, that is often hidden from most people when you see them come alive with excitement for what they are learning and experiencing.  But it takes the right leader and a nurturing environment to allow it to unfold.

So how do you get there - consistent engagement, meaningful conversations, and the ability to embrace complications?  Leading people will ultimately be the biggest challenge and at the same time, the most meaningful work you will ever do.  But let’s face it, when we deal with people, it can be messy.  We don’t all act or respond to things in the same way; otherwise, it would be very boring!  Different viewpoints and perspectives allow us to come at issues and challenges in different ways.  If we’re open to it, we can always learn from each other.  

So, what’s your story, and if you told it, the real and authentic side of you?  What would it reveal?  Envision the people you want to lead.  What do you know about them?  The first part of leading is building a relationship where the person lets you in.